V/Line Regional Manager Jonathan McKeown said the upgrades would ensure level crossings activated in time, every time.

“We’ve installed axle counters at all active level crossings on the Echuca line, and after extensive testing, we’re confident the improved technology will detect trains with the warning time that’s required,” he said.

“Boom gates have also been installed at the Elmore-Raywood Road level crossing in Elmore, adding to the existing bells and flashing lights in place.”

Coaches have been replacing the one weekday and two weekend return services between Bendigo and Echuca since March 20.

Mr McKeown urged people to take care around tracks and level crossings, as trains returned to the line.

“With trains resuming along the corridor after a number of weeks, motorists and pedestrians are reminded to be safe in and around level crossings,” he said.

The first service to return as a train will be the 3.14pm from Southern Cross Station to Echuca on Friday, May 19.